Meet the trainer: Emma Blackwell
Having joined The HIIT Squad family a few months ago, you can always count on Emma to push you in your workout and help you get the best out of your session. Keep reading to get to know her a little better.
How long have you worked at HIIT?
Nearly two months
What do you do when you aren’t taking classes?
I’m doing a level five pt course and a bachelor of applied science majoring in human nutrition so alot of study. When I have free time I love cooking, reading, getting outdoors in whatever way I can and making content for my health and wellbeing instagram @wholefullhealth
Why and how did movement become such a big part of your life?
I experienced multiple knee dislocations through high school and started going to the gym as a part of my rehabilitation. After a while, I fell in love with the gym as it helps me grow, both mentally and physically, and it’s now become a massive part of my identity.
Your favourite thing about The HIIT Squad community?
The supportive energy that everyone brings into the gym. Every class is filled with unique individuals who are all there because they love to train and you really feel you can push yourself further than you thought you could.
What’s your favourite HIIT Squad class?
Kettlebell Wednesday baby!! (I also love a good team workout).
What other practices do you live by that support your mindset and mood?
Prioritising my mental and physical health. Journaling, stretching, nourishing foods, sleep, doing things that I love and listening to my body.
What’s your favourite type of music to work out to?
Honestly it depends on the day and session I’m doing but it’s normally DnB during HIIT workouts and rap when I’m weightlifting.
How do you motivate yourself to get moving when you’re low energy?
Depends on why I’m feeling low energy. If it’s from physical exhaustion, I choose to be gentle with my body and go for a walk or go through a stretch/mobility sequence. If I’m mentally exhausted then I put on my gym playlist, wear my favoruite gym outfit and if I really need it, crack some caffeine because getting in the gym always makes me feel so much better after. It's getting there that is often the hardest part.
What’s your advice to someone brand new to fitness who wants to get started?
Try lots of different things. Being active is supposed to be enjoyable so find your favourite ways to move your body and stick with that. Enjoying what you're doing means you’ll actually get out there and do it which helps create lifelong habits.
What’s your favourite post workout snack/meal?
Vegan spaghetti bolognaise and rice cakes with peanut butter and strawberries.
What does a typical day in your life look like?
I’m either up really early or up at 9 and then go to my classes for my studies/work if I have it, do my own training in the gym and work through some mobility drills, study, make something absolutely delicious for dinner then I’ll wind down for bed by using my shakti mat, reading, watching a show or journaling.
Are you an early riser or a night owl?
Definitely a night owl.
Favourite local Christchurch eatery?
Barefoot eatery.
What’s your go-to brunch order?
Waffles or pancakes with lots of fresh fruit and Nutella.
Three things that bring you the most happiness?
1. Getting outdoors: hiking, skiing, claybird shooting, taking the dog on adventures and swimming are some of my favourite ways to do this.
2. Spending time with loved ones: my family and closest friends are my biggest support system and being with them fills my soul.
3. Traveling: I haven’t really been overseas but I’ve been extremely fortunate to visit lots of incredible places around New Zealand. Stepping outside of your own world and enjoying new experiences is an amazing feeling.